The Federal Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission in Ogun State, Mr Morakinyo Akinleye, has called on political actors to safeguard peace, dignity and democratic ideals by embracing issue-based and rancour-free campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Akinleye made the call in a statement made available to journalists on Thursday, noting that the directive became necessary as political activities heralding the 2027 elections begin to gather momentum.
He stressed the need for political stakeholders to conduct their activities in line with extant laws, describing Ogun as a beacon of intellectualism, progressive thought and political maturity within Nigeria.
“Ogun State has long been recognised as a beacon of intellectualism, progressive thought and political maturity within the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and even a reference point globally,” he said.
“From the legacies of revered statesmen to the present democratic dispensation, our state has consistently demonstrated that politics can and must be conducted with decorum, substance and respect for the rule of law. Hence, we must continue on the same path.”
Describing himself as the state’s ombudsman, the commissioner said his office remains committed to promoting social justice, peace and stability, as well as ensuring administrative justice.
“In my capacity as the state’s ombudsman and Honourable Federal Commissioner, whose responsibilities include promoting social justice, peace and stability as well as ensuring administrative justice, I call on all aspirants and candidates across political parties to pursue their ambitions through issue-based campaigns,” he said.
Akinleye urged political actors to centre their campaigns on concrete policy alternatives and practical strategies addressing key sectors such as economic development, youth empowerment and employment, security, education, healthcare and infrastructure.
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According to him, the electorate deserves campaigns built on ideas and programmes rather than insults, propaganda or violence, adding that campaigns must be devoid of ethnic or sub-ethnic prejudice and promote inclusiveness.
He warned against reducing elections to battlegrounds of personal attacks, character assassination, misinformation or divisive rhetoric, noting that such approaches erode public trust and weaken democratic institutions.
The commissioner further encouraged aspirants to articulate clear manifestos, engage in constructive debates and present measurable plans that address the needs and aspirations of the people.
He also called on party supporters and political mobilisers to exercise restraint, discipline and civility, cautioning that political passion must not degenerate into hostility, violence, intimidation, thuggery, vote-buying or any conduct capable of undermining the electoral process.
“Let us prove once again that Ogun State stands for enlightened politics and peaceful democratic transitions,” he added.
“History will judge this generation of political actors not by the noise they make, but by the stability they preserve and the future they secure.”